France’s plans to develop its offshore wind industry have taken a significant step forward with the signing of a deal with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE).
SGRE signed a framework agreement with Eolien Maritime France (EMF) to supply and service offshore wind turbines with a capacity of approximately 1000 MW for two of EMF’s three French offshore wind projects currently under development.
EMF is a consortium comprising of EDF Renewables and Enbridge and both projects are expected to use SWT-7.0-154 DD offshore wind turbines. The deal is still subject to contract and EMF’s final investment decision.
SGRE’s planned offshore wind turbine manufacturing facility currently under development in the Port of Le Havre will produce the turbines for the consortium’s projects.
The projects under development are the result of the first offshore wind call awarded to EMF in 2012
Markus Tacke, chief executive of Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, said: “This agreement confirms Siemens Gamesa’s position as leader of the offshore wind market in France and allows us to strengthen our medium-term prospects as part of the development of the industrial project in Le Havre. Siemens Gamesa remains fully committed to meeting the needs of all its customers and ensuring that these projects are a success for the sector and for France.”
